The Feast of Epiphany : C: January 5, 2025

 THE MANIFESTATION OF LORD JESUS

First Reading: Isaiah 60: 1 to 5

Second Reading: Ephesians 3: 2 to 3 and 5 to 6

Gospel Reading: Matthew 2: 1 to 12

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah gives us a vision of the restored city of Jerusalem. He assures us that in spite of darkness and gloom, the Lord God will come in splendor and glory and as a light that shines brightly on the people. There will be great rejoicing and abundance of wealth in the land. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Ephesians. Paul explains to the Christian community at Ephesus and us the universality of salvation. God is inviting everyone: Both Jews and gentiles (non- Jews) to share on an equal footing the salvation won by Christ. He further clarifies that all are members of the same body and co-partners in the promises of Christ Jesus. 

The three wise men from the east visit Child Jesus                                                         Epiphany comes from the Greek word "epiphainein" which means to reveal or to manifest. The feast of Epiphany signifies the manifestation of Christ to all nations as represented by the three wise men (Magi) from the East. These men come in search of Christ the Lord. They find Him at Bethlehem, worship Him and offer Him precious gifts. From that day, millions of people from all corners of the world and all walks of life follow their footsteps and come to meet Christ the Lord. Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. A graphic description of how the wise men came to Bethlehem is given. Guided by a star, they reach Jerusalem and meet King Herod. They want some guidance from Herod regarding the whereabouts of the divine Child. Herod calls his advisers and takes their suggestions. They refer to the prophecies of old and come to the conclusion that the new King is born in Bethlehem. The wise men leave Herod's palace and go in search of Child Jesus. They find Him in Bethlehem as told. They meet Child Jesus with Mother Mary and pay their respect to Him and offer Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The Gospel story has some very important and relevant messages. 1.It speaks about the journey of three wise men from the east to Jerusalem, a distant land and totally unknown place, in search of Christ Child. Their journey is a symbol of the search for truth by genuine seekers of God. 2. The meeting of the wise men with Herod tells us that some people in authority and power symbolized by Herod try to suppress and destroy truth, God's messages and messengers. 3. The three wise men pay homage to Christ Child and receive His blessings. It is a deeply touching story of all moments of grace. There is joy of recognition of God and His presence and total surrender to God which is symbolized by their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. In this context John Milton says: "Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world." May Child Jesus who blessed the three wise men from the east bless you and give you the grace to recognize the true living God. Amen. 

(Kindly note: Sunday Reflections with Fr. Joy Joseph is available on YouTube. Please view, like, share and subscribe to the video version on YouTube. "YouTube/Sunday Reflections with Fr. Joy Joseph/January 5. 2025" Thanks.)